Employer Resources: Supporting Blind or Low Vision Employees
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As an employer, fostering an inclusive workplace benefits both your employees and your organization. When hiring or supporting an employee who is blind or has low vision, it’s essential to be aware of the wide range of resources available to assist you. From national programs offering job accommodation guidance to state-specific vocational rehabilitation services, these resources can help ensure your employee’s success while also strengthening your business’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Additionally, industry-specific resources may be available to provide tailored support based on your business sector. By leveraging these tools, you can create an environment where employees with vision loss can thrive and contribute meaningfully to your organization.
National and Web Resources
Many national organizations provide valuable guidance to employers. In addition to the resources listed below, numerous private and government-funded agencies, companies, and organizations offer support once a specific need is identified. For assistance in locating additional resources, contact APH’s toll-free information line at (800) 232-5463.
Job Accommodation Network
Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is a national repository that provides information about job accommodations for people with various disabilities, including blindness and low vision. It also offers free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. Employers can explore tailored solutions to ensure their workplace is accessible and meets the needs of their employees.
Office of Disability Employment Policy
Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), U.S. Dept of Labor provides national leadership in increasing employment opportunities for adults and youth with disabilities while striving to eliminate barriers to employment. Employers can access a broad range of resources, best practices, and policy guidance to create an inclusive workplace. More information can be found on their website.
Regional Resources
Understanding and utilizing regional resources can further support workplace accessibility. Employers can benefit from local expertise and services tailored to their specific geographic area.
ADA Business and Technical Assistance Centers
These centers offer region-specific support to employers, providing:
- Technical assistance on ADA compliance
- Education and training on accessibility
- Distribution of ADA-related materials
- Information and referrals
- Public awareness initiatives
- Capacity building within their communities
To find the center serving your area, visit the National Network of ADA Centers or call (800) 949-4232.
Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies
Each state offers vocational rehabilitation services to individuals who are blind, have low vision, or have other disabilities. These services help employees remain an excellent employee after experiencing vision loss and assist employers with accommodations, on-the-job training, and referrals to qualified candidates with disabilities. Use APH’s Directory of Services to locate Rehabilitation Services near you.
State vocational rehabilitation agencies are typically networked with private agencies and are supported with tax dollars. Their primary goal is to help people with disabilities prepare for and become gainfully employed by providing services to employers and employees.
Benefits to Employers
Employers can receive:
- Consultation: Employers can receive consultation regarding ADA, tax incentives, job accommodations, and retaining employees experiencing vision loss.
- Employment Support: Employers can receive guidance and support on job analysis, awareness training, short- and long-term job coaching, follow-up services, the initial on-site orientation of newly hired employees who are blind or low vision, and special recruitment services when seeking to expand their pool of diverse employees.
- Outreach Assistance: Employers can receive job matching and referral of qualified local candidates through
job fairs, informational workshops, and seminars, in addition to local and national job postings.
- Information Repository: Employers can receive information regarding vendors and technicians, local and national labor market data, unemployment insurance, and financial aid for providing accommodations.
Employer Partner: DisabilityIn
Disability:IN is a leading nonprofit organization that partners with businesses to promote inclusive hiring practices. It provides resources to employers to help them recruit, onboard, and retain employees with disabilities. Companies looking to enhance their inclusivity efforts can explore opportunities through Disability:IN’s programs and initiatives. More information can be found at Disability:IN.
Tax Incentives for Workplace Accommodations
Federal and state tax incentives can help employers offset the cost of providing accommodations for employees with disabilities. Your state’s vocational rehabilitation agency, in collaboration with your employee, can assist in identifying specific accommodation needs.
Tax credits and deductions may cover all or part of these costs. Consult with a qualified accountant to ensure you are taking advantage of the most current incentives at both the state and federal levels.
Examples of accommodations that may qualify include:
- Hiring a reader for an employee
- Purchasing assistive technology
- Installing braille and raised-print signage
In many cases, businesses must provide a letter of disability verification from a state vocational rehabilitation agency to qualify for certain programs. Because tax incentives vary by state, it’s essential to work with an accountant familiar with local and federal regulations to maximize your benefits.
Conclusion
Employing individuals who are blind or have low vision not only fosters diversity and inclusion but also brings valuable skills and perspectives to the workplace. With the support of national and regional resources, vocational rehabilitation services, employer partnerships, and financial incentives, businesses can successfully integrate and support employees with vision loss. By actively utilizing these tools, employers can create a work environment that benefits everyone while ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. Investing in accessibility is an investment in a stronger, more innovative, and more inclusive workforce.